PARAMEDICS say they are working with health chiefs to combat delays at hospitals.

Ambulances were once again left queuing outside Glan Clwyd hospital this week after staff were forced to close beds to contain an outbreak of norovirus.

One angry visitor, who asked not to be named, said his relative was left waiting outside the hospital in an ambulance for more than two hours, despite suffering from chest pains.

Speaking at a health board meeting yesterday, acting chief executive Geoff Lang said: "Everyone is aware of the intense pressure on unscheduled care, caused by the significant level of demand and norovirus. It has been a very difficult period and we are still in a very difficult period."

The board also apologised to patients earlier this week and thanked hospital staff for their “professionalism during challenging times”.

An ambulance service spokesman said: “We are aware of the delays at hospitals across North Wales and are continuing to work with Betsi Cadwaladr to ensure patients are handed over as safely and as quickly as possible, so that our staff are then available in the community for the next 999 call.”